Grants for Americans with Disabilities

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as amended in 2008 defines disability as “a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.” What constitutes disability is determined on a case by case basis. Through this Act, persons with disabilities are given civil rights protection and are guaranteed to receive equal opportunities in employment, transportation, accommodation, telecommunications and in receiving services from both local and state government agencies. To support the implementation of the ADA, the government has instituted grants for Americans with disabilities in cooperation with private and public organizations.

Developmental Disabilities Basic Support and Advocacy Grants

This grant program is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. Through this program, persons with developmental disabilities are given support that will enable them to become productive, independent, and integrated into the activities of the communities to which they belong. Funds can be used to develop plans for a system of services designed to improve the beneficiaries and their families’ lives. Grant money can also be spent to create a system that will protect their human and legal rights. Average financial assistance for basic support is $450,000 and $200,000 for protection and advocacy projects. More information is available at this contact address:

Assistance for Indian Children with Severe Disabilities

This assistance program is administered through the Bureau of Indian Education by the Department of the Interior. Its primary objective is to provide financial assistance for the development of special education services to severely-disabled Indian children. Program funds can be spent for therapies administered to these children such as speech therapy, occupational and physical therapy, and educational services. Eligible to apply for this grant are members of federally recognized Indian tribes. They must also be enrolled currently in a school funded by the Bureau of Indian Education. Range of daily amount awarded for each student is between $140 and $300. You can get more information about this program from the program headquarters:

College students with disabilities can also look for grants for Americans with disabilities and get the same benefits that will allow them to pursue higher education and finish their degrees. Such grants are available from both government agencies and private organizations across the country.